Gov. Deal alarmed by cheating in Dougherty schools

ALBANY, Ga. -- Gov. Nathan calls the findings of new state report on cheating within Dougherty County Schools "alarming."

"They paint a tragic picture of children passed through with no real or fair assessment of their abilities," Deal said in a statement after receiving the report on Monday. "To cheat a child out of his or her ability to truly excel in the classroom shames the district and the state."

In August 2010, special investigators were appointed by then-Gov. Sonny Perdue to look into possible cheating the previous year in the Atlanta and Dougherty County school systems.

The investigation revealed widespread cheating by nearly 180 educators in almost half of Atlanta's 100 schools.

COMPLETE COVERAGE | APS CRCT Cheating Investigation

"There is nothing more important to the future of our state than ensuring that today's students receive a first-class education," Deal said. "It is my hope that brighter days are ahead for the children affected by this unfortunate situation."

The latest report was expected to be distributed to Dougherty County school board members on Tuesday. Gov. Deal said the results are also being sent to the Professional Standards Committee and the Dougherty County district attorney's office.